1995 pathfinder xe 3.0 v6 intermitant cranking low idling

[robert71]

My pathfinder cranks intermitantly and when it does it idles real low (less than 500 rpm), then when I apply the throttle it dies. Does anyone know what the problem is? I replaced throttle position sensor, fuel pump and pressure regulator plus new filter, removed the cats, checked all electrical connections and cleaned intake. Someone told me that the ecm has lost its idle. Is this possible?

[4xq]

First, make sure your plugs are in good shape, then go here for the service manual:
http://www.nicoclub.com/FSM/Pathfinder/1995_Pathfinder/

Go to section EC (Engine controls) and on page 166 is the idle speed / air mixture / timing adjustment stuff. Check your ignition timing - 12 degrees at idle is the max spec. If you are at high altitude where the regular gas octane is reduced to 85, you need to cheat that up to 14 or 15 degrees advance to compensate for high altitude.

Page EC-171 has some diagnostic procedures - looks like procedure 6 may apply to you.

Hope that helps!